The Oxford and Cambridge Advanced Studies Program

The Advanced Studies Summer Program is suitable for motivated students from sophomore year and above and is designed to provide a well-rounded educational and cultural experience, placing a strong emphasis on exploration and enrichment, employing the ‘Oxbridge’ teaching methods of small-group seminars and one-on-one tutorials. This student-focused approach creates a lively and stimulating learning environment in which to engage with new and exciting ideas and is designed to help students develop independence of thought and the ability to exchange ideas and express opinions confidently. The small classes provide a great opportunity to explore new topics and to develop confidence in participating in a university-style learning environment. A strong cultural and activities program complements this, with interesting visits to places of interest both in Oxford and Cambridge, and beyond. This gives a fascinating insight into England’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.

Summer 2018 offers a wide variety of subjects delivered by an outstanding academic faculty. Visits and activities, workshops and masterclasses are part of the program, making this a well-balanced summer experience, an excellent preparation for the self-reliance and independence of college life. The choice of whether to enroll for the Oxford or Cambridge program depends on the subjects offered and preference of location; both programs follow the same structure. You can choose to attend for two or four weeks.

The London program is also offered to a slightly younger age group, with a well-structured academic program in which students choose one core subject plus one specialist subject, and with activities in and around this vibrant city.

Daily Structure

The weekly timetable includes morning tutorials and seminars, afternoon workshops, visits and activities, with cultural excursions each week. To get an idea of the typical weekly timetable, see below.

Academic Courses

Students choose two subjects from the wide choice offered, over each two-week period. Most students on the four-week program continue with their chosen subjects although it is possible to change subjects after two weeks if you so wish.

Subjects are studied in depth through daily seminars and weekly tutorials. Reading and written preparation is set, completed during evening study or free-time periods, which reinforces the material and themes and helps develop sound study methods.

Course tutors are highly experienced and enthusiastic communicators. The majority of the faculty are Oxford and Cambridge University graduates, many undertaking research and teaching at undergraduate level. They are experienced in working with students at this level.

Workshops

The programs are designed to offer a well-rounded academic and cultural experience, appreciating that students thrive and develop skills when they are involved and have a creative outlet. Interactive workshop options are offered, meeting twice each week; for each workshop there is a presentation to the rest of the student group during the final graduation dinner.

A range of workshops is available in both centres. Options are listed below and students are asked to make their choices a few weeks before arrival.

A team of students will compile and edit articles from the student body to create an end-of-course yearbook and student magazine. Photos, profiles & cherished memories can all be included in this perfect course memento. The yearbooks and magazines will be posted to all students after the summer.

Students interested in the different aspects of film making and production are given guidance with the basic methods and techniques involved, working towards the production of short films on topics chosen by the group. Local film companies help students prepare, edit and produce their modern masterpiece.

For those with dramatic flair, this is the ideal workshop to release it. No previous experience is required, although enthusiasm and creativity are essential. Ideal for both novice thespians and matinee idols. Previous weekly workshops have ranged from Shakespeare to stage combat and improvisation classes.

Both Cambridge and Oxford University and renowned for their debating pedigree. A range of public figures from Ronald Reagan to the Dalai Lama have spoken at the world-famous Oxford and Cambridge Unions. Students will be coached in the art of constructing coherent arguments and will partake in a formal debate.

In this visual arts workshop, students are armed with a sketchbook and charcoal pencils and tasked with representing the beauty of Oxford and Cambridge’s world-famous architecture through visits to the colleges and historic buildings.

Students are tasked with identifying a product or service that they can turn into a business, and then mentored in producing a more detailed feasibility study, leading to a business plan. This plan is then pitched to a panel of fellow students, to represent ‘investors’.

Master Classes

Three afternoon ‘masterclasses’ are offered over each two-week program. These are designed to explore key skills essential for success in higher education and future careers. Sessions are led by one of the teaching faculty or by guest speakers and consist of interactive seminars followed by reinforcement, allowing students to practise and refine the skills.

The UK’s university admissions process involves a single application and is administered by the ‘University and Colleges Admissions Service’. This can be a daunting experience for those used to a different system and the masterclass takes students through the process and offers advice on how to complete an application effectively

Writing a personal statement is an integral part of a student’s university application process and there are important points to bear in mind, both in terms of content and style. This masterclass offers suggestions and advice to improve the quality of the students’ submissions.

Preparation is the key to interview success and there are tips and tricks in preparing for an interview. Similarly, giving an effective presentation involves techniques of presenting content and self-projection. These masterclasses offer advice to encourage success.

The amount of independent study required at university can be a shock to many freshmen. Learning how to read effectively, take good notes, make good use of lecture material and research and revise appropriately is invaluable for when the university career begins.

This class aims to provide students with a clearer idea of how to match their aptitudes and interests, and career aspirations, with a suitable choice of degree. It also offers advice on avoiding courses that do not match strengths and interests.

This class gives an opportunity to speak to Oxford and Cambridge undergraduates about their university experience, including the application process and insights into the life of a student at two of the most famous academic institutions in the world.

Academic Credit

Academic credit may be awarded for four-week courses. If you would like to be awarded credit for attending the program we must liaise with your school to satisfy its criteria and arrange the credit before you arrive in the UK. We communicate directly with your school to ensure that the subject material and delivery fit with specific requirements. Students who wish to receive a credit transfer should consult their school guidance counselor.

Every student takes home a certificate of attendance, along with a full report card written by the Course Director and tutors. Reports include an assessment of progress and achievement as well as suggestions for consolidation and further studies. We can send a copy of the certificate and report card to your school as proof of academic achievement.

Higher Education

The academic work undertaken and the scholastic skills developed during the program provide an excellent foretaste of college level study, thus helping students to make the transition to a more independent and self-motivated learning style.

A summer program taken in Oxford or Cambridge is always an impressive addition to a college application, and can make a big difference in the competitive selection process.

Increasing numbers of students are interested in applying to a British university. Specific guidance on applying through the UCAS system can be arranged upon request.

Activities

Both Oxford and Cambridge are small and compact cities, easily navigated on foot. Shortly after arrival, students are shown the important landmarks on an orientation tour and are soon able to walk around easily and confidently, becoming familiar with the important sites, college buildings, museums and galleries as well as the best cafes and restaurants. Thereafter, they are encouraged to enjoy exploring the city during free time. Safety is paramount and students, when not accompanied by a member of staff, should always be with at least one other student. There are rules and curfews to be observed, flouting of which will restrict further freedoms.

After dinner each day, students can relax after a busy day. We offer a range of activities in Oxford and Cambridge from musical performances to ten-pin bowling, open-air theatre to the cinema. Some evenings will be spent preparing for seminars, tutorials or workshops.

Oxford students can explore the Bodleian Library, Ashmolean Museum and Christ Church College where the Harry Potter movies were filmed. Cambridge students will enjoy the Fitzwilliam Museum, King’s College Chapel or a quiet walk through Grantchester Meadows along the River Cam. Both Oxford and Cambridge are synonymous with punting which is a leisurely (though skilful!) way to spend a sunny summer day. Shakespeare plays are often performed in beautiful college gardens, offering a delightful summer evening experience.

Sport

Sporting activities are optional and students are given opportunities to refine their skills in the traditional British games of croquet and cricket. Other sports offered include soccer, basketball, tennis, swimming and ice-skating. Sports sessions are held during the afternoons and evenings and practice can be arranged for other sporting interests, according to demand.

Excursions

Each two-week course includes two full-day and one half-day excursion to exciting locations across the UK, including at least one visit to London. Other destinations include:

Students will enjoy relevant visits to local companies, museums and other cultural highlights. In addition to the fixed excursions, faculty are encouraged to take their students on field trips relevant to their lessons. An Oxford vs Cambridge debate and opportunity to socialise is held, offering an extra competitive edge between those studying at each institution. This is held every two weeks, one in each city.

Program Dates & Tuition 2018

Four-week Program

Oxford : 1-28 July

Cambridge : 8 July – 4 August

Cost = $8,900

Two-week Program

Oxford : 1-14 July & 15 – 28 July

Cambridge : 8-21 July & 22 July – 4 August

Cost = $4,500

Apply Now

Apply today for a place on the 2018 Oxford and Cambridge Advanced Studies Program!